Performing Arts Presents Oyu Oro Afro-Cuban Dance Ensemble

By Michelle Reiser-Memmer Posted February 23, 2012

The Hamilton College Performing Arts Series presents a multi-cultural evening of Afro-Cuban drum and dance with Oyu Oro Afro-Cuban Experimental Dance Ensemble on Saturday, Feb. 25, at 8 p.m., in Wellin Hall.

Oyu Oro is committed to the preservation of Afro-Cuban folklore as well as to encouraging the cross-cultural understanding of the dance and music forms derived from African culture. While Oyu Oro’s traditional repertoire pays tribute to African lineages derived from the Yoruba, Congo, Carabali, Arará and Dahomean cultures of West Africa and Haiti, the popular dance choreographies also celebrate the national Cuban heritage.

Originally from Santiago de Cuba, artistic director Danys “La Mora” Pérez is an internationally renowned master of Afro-Cuban folkloric dance. Perez’s special expertise as dancer, teacher, dance ethnologist, and choreographer is in the unique styles of her native region of the Oriente province in Eastern Cuba.

In addition to the public performance, there will be a free workshop, Preserving Culture through Dance & Music, on Friday, Feb. 24, at 4 p.m., in Wellin Hall. Co-sponsored by Performing Arts Series, Department of Music, and Days-Massolo Center, this interactive workshop with members of the Oyu Oro Afro-Cuban Dance Ensemble will explore how artists connect with culture and identity through dance, music and performance. Light dinner to follow. Space is limited, and participants should wear comfortable clothing appropriate for movement.

Tickets for the evening performance are $15 for adults, $10 for senior citizens, and $5 for students. All seating is general admission. For more information, to purchase tickets for the performance, or to register for the workshop, call the box office at 859-4331. Information and tickets are also available at www.hamiltonpa.org.